The Darnley-based fork lift truck specialist, Douglas Gillespie Plant (DGP), has given young golfers another lift.

The company sponsored, Scottish Boys’ Under-16s Golf Championships were held at Brunston Castle in Ayrshire during the school holidays and attracted a record 169 entries.

One of Scotland’s premier junior golf events, it was won by 14-year-old Ian Redford, son of Rangers legend Ian Redford.  He was declared ‘king of the castle’ after storming to victory.  Said Ian, ‘I’m absolutely delighted and hope there will be more to follow.’ The three handicapper said, ‘I was feeling confident all day and knew I was tied for the lead.

‘But when national cap player David Law snagged a bogey at the 17th, I knew then, I could do it.’ Ian carded rounds of 71, 76 and 75 for a winning total aggregate of 222 (6 over).

Said Douglas Gillespie, Chairman and Managing Director of the family forklift specialist, ‘This is our 30th year of partnership with the Scottish Golf Union. We are delighted to have been able to encourage the development of Scottish golf over the years.

Added Hamish Grey, Scottish Golf Union’s Chief Executive, ‘We’re extremely grateful to Douglas Gillespie and his staff for their wonderful support of Scottish golf over the past 30 years. Many sponsors come and go but Douglas has stood by the organization and helped nurture some of the game’s current stars.’